Handsworth Wood is a suburb of Birmingham located approximately 3.5 miles north of the city centre. Previously part of Staffordshire, Handsworth Wood (not to be mistaken with Handsworth located nearby) is considered one of the most prestigious parts of the West Midlands, and much of the property reflects that. The 2011 census showed that it had a population of 27,749.
The History of Handsworth Wood
Unsurprisingly, Handsworth Wood gets its name from the wooded area located in the manor of Handsworth, and as such was mentioned in the 1086 Doomsday Book, where its dimensions were given as 1.5 leagues (4.5 miles) in length and width. Even by the end of the 19th century the area was still largely rural, home only to a few grand residences. It was not until the inter war period that development in Handsworth Wood began in earnest, but despite the changes, the area has very much maintained its middle-class status.
Transport Links
The nearest train stations are Perry Bar and Hamstead Railway Stations which both have trains running direct to Birmingham Moor Street. The A34 runs down through the area, meaning it is just a 10–15 minute drive into the city centre.
The area is served by the 11C, 16 and 101 bus routes.
Schools
There are several primary and secondary schools in Handsworth Wood, including:
Cherry Orchard Primary School
St Teresa's Catholic Primary School
Grestone Primary School.
Hamstead Hall Academy
King Edward VI Handsworth Wood Girls' Academy.
Close by are King Edward VI Handsworth Girl's Grammar School and Handsworth Grammar School.
Amenities
The area has a number of pharmacies, and there are several local and larger supermarkets in easy reach. Handsworth Wood has several good quality pubs and restaurants as you would expect for an upmarket area.
Handsworth Wood boasts a very good range of sporting facilities and clubs, including a bowling club, cricket club, tennis club as well as the well-regarded Handsworth Golf Club.
Things to do in and around Handsworth Wood
The area still maintains a rural feel and you do not have to go far to find lush green parkland and open spaces. Perry Hill Park and Handsworth Park are both in very easy walking distance, while only a little further away is Sandwell Valley Country Park, an area of woodland and fields that covers 660 acres. The area, which has lakes, ponds, streams, ancient ruins and more besides, is crossed with numerous hiking and bike trails.